BRIEF—Pfizer and BioNTech amend COVID-19 vaccine supply deal with EC

US pharma giant Pfizer and German partner BioNTech today announced they have reached an agreement with the European Commission (EC) to amend their existing contract to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to the European Union.

The amended agreement reflects the companies’ commitment to working collaboratively to help address ongoing public health needs, while respecting the principles of the original agreement.

It includes rephasing of delivery of doses annually through 2026.

In addition, the agreement includes an aggregate volume reduction, providing additional flexibility for EU member states.

The EC will maintain access to future adapted COVID-19 vaccines and the ability to donate doses, in alignment with the original agreement.

COVID-19 vaccination has played an important role in saving lives and livelihoods across Europe.

In the first year of their rollout, vaccines were estimated to have averted over 4 million COVID-19-related deaths in Europe and 6 million hospitalizations globally, saving hospital resources worth 56 billion euros ($69 billion).

Pfizer sold the jabs for around $19 a dose under the contract signed in 2021, but the new price has not been disclosed.